Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi has been elected Chairman of the Sri Lanka–Bahrain Parliamentary Friendship Association for the Tenth Parliament, as efforts continue to strengthen relations between the two countries.
The association was formally established during a meeting held in Parliament on June 23 under the patronage of Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne. Parliament Secretary General Kushani Rohanadeera also attended the event.
MP Sujeewa Senasinghe was elected Secretary of the association, while MP Anushka Thilakaratne was elected Treasurer. MPs Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran, Aboobucker Athambawa, Kader Masthan and Hector Appuhamy were elected as Vice Chairpersons.
Meanwhile, MPs Elayathamby Srinath and Lal Premanath were appointed as Assistant Secretaries.
Focus on Economic and Bilateral Cooperation
Addressing the gathering, Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relationship between the two countries. He noted that diplomatic ties established in 1992 have expanded steadily across political, economic and cultural sectors.
The Speaker also acknowledged the contribution made by the Sri Lankan community living in Bahrain. He said the expatriate community continues to play an important role in strengthening relations between the two nations.
According to Wickramaratne, the Parliamentary Friendship Association will provide a platform to enhance dialogue and cooperation between legislators of both countries. He added that continued engagement is important in addressing common challenges and identifying new areas of cooperation.
Trade, Investment and Tourism Priorities
Speaking after his election, Dr. Patabendi said the association would focus on strengthening bilateral relations through active parliamentary engagement.
He identified trade, investment and tourism as key sectors where closer cooperation could deliver mutual benefits. He also stressed the importance of supporting the welfare of Sri Lankans living in Bahrain while promoting economic opportunities between the two countries.
Bahrain remains an important destination for Sri Lankan workers in the Middle East. Stronger parliamentary engagement could help facilitate discussions on labour welfare, economic cooperation, business partnerships and tourism promotion.
The formation of the association reflects ongoing efforts to expand international partnerships and create new opportunities for economic collaboration. For businesses and investors, stronger bilateral ties can support trade flows, investment opportunities and people-to-people connections between the two countries.
The meeting was attended by ministers, deputy ministers, members of parliament and parliamentary officials.
Last modified: June 24, 2026
